The Department of Education (DepEd) reiterated on Monday that public school teachers are prohibited from using personal funds for school readiness activities, a rule that remains in effect despite reported violations. Lawmakers and teacher groups have raised continuing reports that some educators still shoulder classroom repair costs out of pocket. DepEd made the statement during a House Committee on Basic Education and Culture hearing, as reported by BusinessWorld.
The policy covering the ban on personal spending is part of DepEd Order No. 008, s. 2023, which prohibits the collection of contributions and the use of teachers' own money for school maintenance and other operating expenses. The department stressed that all necessary school readiness expenses should be covered by allocated school funds or the national budget, not by teachers' salaries.
DepEd officials said they would investigate fresh complaints and enforce sanctions against school administrators who compel teachers to spend their own money. The agency also reminded the public that teachers should focus on teaching and not be burdened by administrative or financial tasks related to school opening preparations.